Wednesday, April 8, 2009

DMV Registration Started

I think this part scares me the most of the whole process. I just can't find good information on what to expect here.

I went to DMV today and asked what I need to do in order to change the registration from Gas to Electric. After they did some research, they gave me the phone number to BAR (Bureau of Automobile Repair) stating that I need to get an inspection from them first and then come back.

After being on hold for 30 minutes I spoke with a nice gentleman who informed me I called the wrong number and I needed to call the BAR referee instead. I received that number and made another call. It turns out I can go to Modesto Junior College which is within battery range for a round trip! I'm so glad I don't need to tow it, especially if I don't pass and need to return.

I asked the guy on the phone now what was involved so that I could make sure the car was ready, sadly he didn't know. I have an appointment in two days so we'll see what happens.

2 comments:

Dimitri said...

What is the benefit of registering as Electric? Why do you care what DMV thinks of your engine type? Better yet, what about insurance policy? I find that insuring an EV is scarier than DMV registration. My insurance company (State Farm) flat out refuses to insure EV, just because its "unknown animal" and they have no book for it.

Brian said...

Good questions. Depending on where you live this definately varies.

In the county I live in, a vehicle that is over a certain age is required to be smogged every two years. I'll fail the smog test so I need to change it to electric for that reason.

We've already contacted our insurance (AAA). They just said "ok". We asked if there were any breaks for it being electric and they said no. They plan on offering benefits for electric vehicles but nothing available right now. So I think I'm ok here.